Summary
The Glen Arbor Township Planning Commission met on November 7, 2024, with Chairman Lance Roman presiding. The meeting focused largely on a rezoning proposal for the Frank Fisher Store property at 5504 River Road, presented by Matt Ames, along with continued review of several zoning ordinance items. No formal votes were taken on the rezoning matter, and the Commission agreed to revisit the application once additional agency approvals are completed. The October meeting minutes were approved on a motion by Andy Dotterweich, supported by Bob Ihme.
Public Comments
Residents living near the proposed rezoning site raised concerns about parking and traffic impacts on Bay Lane, and about the shift from Residential to Commercial zoning. They also asked about the status of the bike trail between Glen Arbor and the Homestead. No formal responses or resolutions were recorded. Seven letters, both supporting and opposing the Fisher Store rezoning, were received by the Commission via email prior to the meeting.
Infrastructure Projects
A presentation was given by Matt Ames proposing rezoning of the Frank Fisher Store property at 5504 River Road. Zoning Administrator Tim Cypher advised on agencies to contact and potential issues. Chairman Roman recommended that approvals from the Road Commission, MDOT, and the Health Department be obtained before the Commission proceeds further. The Commission will revisit the matter once the application is complete. No votes were taken.
Other Business
- Master Plan review update: discussion occurred among Commission members; no action taken.
- Zoning Ordinance (ZOv5.1) review items: Item #3 Key Holing (Bob Ihme), Item #4 Accessory Buildings (printed materials distributed), and Item #5 Shipping Container Use (ordinance materials provided by Roman).
- Roman distributed charts on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and "Frogs," covering land use requirements by district and proposed ordinance changes for accessory buildings.
- Solar and Wind ordinance items were also listed for review.
- Zoning Board of Appeals: Dotterweich reported no upcoming ZBA matters.
- Township Board Report: No report given, as Bob Hawley was absent.
Action Items
- The Fisher Store rezoning application (5504 River Road) to be revisited once Road Commission, MDOT, and Health Department approvals are obtained.
- Continued review of ZOv5.1 ordinance items: Key Holing, Accessory Buildings, Shipping Container Use, ADUs/Frogs, and Solar and Wind provisions.
- Dotterweich noted concern about rezoning a business lot located in the center of the Residential District, a recurring point of discussion regarding zoning conflicts.